Non-destructive State Detection and Spectroscopy of Single Molecules.

Mudit Sinhal,Stefan Willitsch,Ziv Meir

doi:10.2533/chimia.2021.291

Abstract

We review our recent experimental results on the non-destructive quantum-state detection and spectroscopy of single trapped molecules. At the heart of our scheme, a single atomic ion is used to probe the state of a single molecular ion without destroying the molecule or even perturbing its quantum state. This method opens up perspectives for new research directions in precision spectroscopy, for the development of new frequency standards, for tests of fundamental physical concepts and for the precise study of chemical reactions and molecular collisions with full control over the molecular quantum state.

Highlights

We review our recent experimental results on the non-destructive quantum-state detection and spectroscopy of single trapped molecules
At the heart of our scheme, a single atomic ion is used to probe the state of a single molecular ion without destroying the molecule or even perturbing its quantum state
This method opens up perspectives for new research directions in precision spectroscopy, for the development of new frequency standards, for tests of fundamental physical concepts and for the precise study of chemical reactions and molecular collisions with full control over the molecular quantum state

Summary

Introduction

The ability to trap, cool and manipulate atoms, molecules and ions has recently led to impressive advancements in both chemistry and physics.[1,2,3] These technologies have enabled experiments with long interrogation times under precisely controlled conditions paving the way for applications such as extremely precise spectroscopic measurements[4,5,6] facilitating, e.g., searches for new physics beyond the standard model[7,8] and accurate tests of high-level theoretical calculations of atomic and molecular energy-level structures.[9,10] These technologies have enabled precise studies of chemical reaction and collision dynamics[11,12,13] and of state- and energy-controlled reactions under cold and ultracold conditions.[14,15,16,17,18]At the core of many of these experiments are atoms or atomic ions which can be Doppler laser cooled on closed optical cycling transitions. Abstract: We review our recent experimental results on the non-destructive quantum-state detection and spectroscopy of single trapped molecules.

Results

Conclusion